Sunscreen Day, celebrated every year on May 27, is a reminder of the importance of applying sunscreen regardless of the season, not just for cosmetic concerns, but as a health essential. Dermatologists continue to stress that sunscreen is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent long-term skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer.
Experts recommend choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, as it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are associated with premature aging and pigmentation, while UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburns.
Sunscreen myths you should stop believing
Despite the growing conversation about skin care routines and sun protection, many people still misunderstand how sunscreen works, when to use it, and why it’s important year-round. So, on this Sunscreen Day, let’s bust some myths related to sunscreen and its use.
Myth 1: I’m indoors, do I still need sunscreen?
Dr. Gaurav Garg, dermatologist at Dermalife Skin & Hair Clinic, tells HT Shop Now, “Sunscreen isn’t just for beach holidays or summer afternoons. Most people think sunblock only matters when it’s hot or sand. The truth changes things: Ultraviolet rays come in every season, passing through clouds, sneaking in through window panes. So, the morning routine should include a layer, no matter what. Be it sitting near the glass, sitting behind the wheel or getting out for minutes.”
Reiterating this, Dr Rinke Kapoor, co-founder and director of The Aesthetic Clinic, says: “Sunscreen should be seen as a daily skin care need rather than a topical product. We often see people looking at sunscreen as an occasional product rather than an everyday necessity. On Sunscreen Day, she emphasizes the need to understand that sunscreen is not just about preventing tanning. “It also prevents premature ageing, pigmentation, collagen “One of the most effective tools we have against breakouts and even skin cancer,” explains the expert.
Myth 2: It’s cloudy, why do we need sunscreen?
This misconception remains one of the biggest reasons why people fail to protect themselves during daily activities. Dr. Garg warns that ultraviolet (UV) radiation can silently damage the skin, even on cloudy days or indoors near windows. “Over time, cumulative exposure contributes to tanning, pigmentation, wrinkles, collagen breakdown and uneven skin texture.”
Dr. Kapoor says that UV exposure affects the skin even indoors or in cloudy weather. She adds, “Indian skin complexion is especially prone to stubborn pigmentation and uneven skin texture due to cumulative UV exposure, even indoors or in cloudy weather.”
Myth 3: Dark skin doesn’t need sunscreen
Another common myth is that people with darker skin don’t need sunscreen. Dr. India says, “Some people believe that darker complexion eliminates the risk altogether. Melanin certainly helps, but shadows on the skin, uneven tone, aging due to exposure to light? Still possible in all shades.”
In a country like India, where pigmentation concerns are extremely common, she says regular sunscreen use becomes even more important.
Myth 4: Wearing sunscreen blocks vitamin D absorption
A very uncommon but persistent concern among consumers is the belief that sunscreens completely block vitamin D absorption. Dermatologists insist that this fear is largely exaggerated.
Dr. Garg says, “Some people think that applying sunscreen blocks all vitamin D. This idea does not hold up under medical scrutiny. While going about daily activities outdoors, many people soak up enough rays without even trying. The belief that applying sunscreen is useless may invite harm in the future.”
Myth 5: Applying Sunscreen Wrong: Does This Even Matter?
Has anyone ever told you that you are applying sunscreen wrong? Although you may think that there is no right or wrong way to apply sunscreen, the truth is that using sunscreen incorrectly can significantly reduce its effectiveness. Applying too little product or forgetting to reapply is one of the most common mistakes.
“For the face and neck, most adults need two fingers’ worth of cream. Start applying about a quarter of an hour before exposure to sunlight, this gives the layer time to set properly,” says Dr. Garg.
Myth 6: I’ve used it once, that’s enough
Applying sunscreen just once is not enough. Experts say reuse is equally important, especially in India’s humid weather conditions. “Most people forget to reapply. Every few hours works best, especially if you’re out a lot, sweating, or caught in the hot sun. If you’re swimming or at the poolside, water-resistant sunscreens can be useful. However, they won’t last forever,” advises Dr. Garg.
Myth 7: I’ve had expensive skin treatments, I don’t need sunscreen
Dermatologists emphasize that expensive skin care treatments alone cannot compensate for poor sun protection habits. Dr. Kapoor explains, “People also need to understand that any skin care treatment, be it laser, chemical peels, anti-aging injectables, or pigmentation correction procedures – cannot provide lasting results without consistent sun protection.” “In fact, sunscreen is what helps preserve and enhance the benefits of advanced dermatology treatments”, she says.
Ingredients to keep in mind in sunscreen
People are now paying more attention to broad-spectrum protection, filter quality, texture, finish, and overall skin compatibility rather than relying solely on SPF numbers. This change is extremely encouraging as sunscreen is no longer seen as a seasonal product, but as an essential part of long-term skin health.
“Ingredients like Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb technology and new generation UV filters now allow the formulation to provide stronger and more stable UVA and UVB protection while maintaining a lightweight, breathable texture,” Shaili Mehrotra, CEO and co-founder of Fixderma and FCL, tells HT Shop Now.
She further explains that zinc oxide also remains one of the most trusted mineral filters due to its broad spectrum coverage and skin compatibility, especially for sensitive and acne-prone skin. “Improvements in formulation technology have also helped address age-old concerns about heaviness, greasiness and visible white cast, making modern sunscreens far more wearable for daily use,” she says.
Celebrity dermatologist Dr Bindu Sthalekar of Skin Smart Solutions tells HT Shop Now that the ingredients in a sunscreen matter most. Here’s the list of ingredients she recommends people look for, depending on the type of sunscreen.
Mineral Filter: Gentle and Protective
Mineral sunscreens typically use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as their active ingredients. These filters sit on the surface of the skin and reflect or scatter UV radiation. Zinc oxide is particularly valued because it provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Mineral sunscreens are often recommended for sensitive, reactive or post-procedure skin because they are generally less irritating. Earlier formulations were known to leave a noticeable white cast, especially on deeper skin tones, but newer technologies have greatly improved their finish and blendability.
Chemical filters: lightweight and cosmetically beautiful
Ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, oxybenzone and new generation filters are used in chemical sunscreens. These elements absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat before it can damage the skin. These formulations are often lighter, more breathable, and easier to incorporate into daily use, especially in hot and humid climates. Modern chemical filters also provide stronger and more stable UVA protection than older generations.
role of antioxidants
Many modern sunscreens now contain antioxidant ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, niacinamide, green tea extract, and ferulic acid. These ingredients help neutralize free radicals caused by UV exposure and pollution. While sunscreen blocks a large percentage of UV damage, antioxidants provide an additional layer of protection against oxidative stress, which contributes to pigmentation and skin aging over time.
Hydration and barrier support
A good sunscreen should also support the skin barrier. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and panthenol help maintain hydration and reduce irritation, especially for individuals with dry or sensitive skin. For oily or acne-prone skin, lighter gel-based or non-comedogenic formulations are often more suitable. Tinted sunscreens containing iron oxide can also help protect against visible light-induced pigmentation.
